Your Lake St. Louis Plumbing Checklist for Spring and Summer
As temperatures rise and homeowners gear up for outdoor projects, vacations, and warmer weather, your plumbing system might not be top of mind—but it should be. The transition from winter to spring and summer puts unique demands on your plumbing, and ignoring maintenance can lead to leaks, clogs, and costly repairs down the line.
This seasonal plumbing checklist is designed to help Lake St. Louis homeowners stay ahead of problems, save water, and protect their homes during the warmer months.
Why Seasonal Plumbing Maintenance Matters
Just like HVAC systems need tune-ups in the spring and fall, your plumbing system benefits from regular inspections and maintenance. Spring thaws and increased water usage in the summer can expose hidden issues or create new ones.
Seasonal plumbing care:
- Prevents leaks and pipe bursts
- Prepares outdoor fixtures for increased use
- Keeps water bills under control
- Ensures drains and appliances work efficiently
If you want to avoid plumbing emergencies this summer, a little prevention now goes a long way.
1. Inspect for Hidden Leaks
Start with a full walkthrough of your home, including:
- Under sinks and around toilets
- In the basement or crawlspace
- Around water heaters and washing machines
- Outside hose bibs and spigots
Check for:
- Moisture or puddles
- Mold or mildew smells
- Warped flooring or discolored drywall
If you find any signs of a hidden leak, Spearhead Plumbing’s leak repair services can identify the source and fix it fast before it becomes a bigger issue.
2. Test Outdoor Hose Bibs and Faucets
Outdoor spigots can suffer freeze damage during the winter. To check:
- Turn on the faucet and place your thumb over the opening.
- If water stops flowing or pressure is weak, you may have a damaged pipe inside the wall.
Cracked hose bibs can cause water to leak into your foundation or walls. Have them repaired or replaced as needed.
3. Flush and Check Your Water Heater
During the winter, your water heater works overtime. Spring is the perfect time to:
- Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
- Test the T&P valve for proper operation
- Inspect for rust, moisture, or corrosion
- Set the thermostat to 120°F for efficiency
Routine maintenance extends the lifespan of your unit and ensures hot water stays consistent. If you suspect trouble, our water heater repair experts can help.
4. Clean Drains and Gutters
Clogged drains can lead to backups, slow draining sinks, and even foul odors. In spring and summer, common culprits include:
- Hair and soap buildup in showers
- Food waste in kitchen drains
- Tree roots invading outdoor sewer lines
DIY drain cleaners can damage pipes, especially older ones. A professional plumber can safely and effectively clear blockages and recommend preventative solutions.
5. Inspect and Replace Worn Fixtures
Leaky faucets, old showerheads, and worn toilet parts are easy to ignore—but they waste water and increase utility bills. Look out for:
- Faucets that drip even when shut off
- Toilets that run continuously
- Outdated showerheads with low pressure
Upgrading fixtures improves efficiency and comfort. Our fixture services can modernize your bathroom and kitchen while conserving water.
6. Check Sump Pump Operation
If your home has a sump pump, spring is prime time for a test run. Heavy rains can overwhelm systems that haven’t been maintained.
Test your sump pump by:
- Pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit
- Watching to see if the pump activates and discharges the water
If it doesn’t respond or sounds sluggish, it may need cleaning or replacement.
7. Inspect and Test Shut-Off Valves
Knowing where your shut-off valves are—and confirming that they work—is essential for any plumbing emergency.
Walk through your home and:
- Identify the main water shut-off valve
- Turn it on and off to make sure it operates smoothly
- Test individual shut-offs for toilets, sinks, and appliances
Stuck or broken valves should be replaced before you find yourself needing them in a pinch.
8. Check for Sewer Smells or Backups
Warm weather can bring unpleasant odors from drains and sewer lines. If you notice:
- A rotten egg smell near your sink or shower
- Gurgling toilets or tubs
- Slow-draining water across multiple fixtures
…it may be time to check for venting issues or a partially blocked main line. These problems can worsen quickly in the summer heat and should be addressed by a licensed plumber. Explore our full range of services here.
9. Test Appliances and Hoses
Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with water lines should all be inspected. Look for:
- Cracked hoses or loose connections
- Leaks at the wall or floor
- Rust or buildup on connections
If a hose is more than five years old, consider replacing it with a braided stainless steel version for added durability.
10. Schedule a Whole-Home Plumbing Inspection
Not sure where to begin—or don’t have the time? A seasonal inspection from a professional plumber can give you peace of mind. We check:
- Pipes for signs of corrosion or damage
- Water pressure and flow rates
- Drain functionality
- Fixture operation and efficiency
Contact Spearhead Plumbing to schedule a seasonal inspection and get ahead of problems before they start.
Bonus: Consider a Water Filtration Upgrade
Spring and summer are great times to install or upgrade a water filtration system. Benefits include:
- Cleaner, better-tasting drinking water
- Reduced scale buildup in pipes
- Protection from chlorine, rust, and contaminants
Ask us about filtration options during your next service call to keep your home’s water supply safe and healthy.
Conclusion
As Lake St. Louis homeowners shake off the winter chill and prepare for the warmer months ahead, it’s the perfect time to check in on your plumbing system. By tackling a few simple maintenance tasks now, you can avoid bigger problems later—and enjoy a stress-free summer.
Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, sluggish drain, or just want peace of mind, Spearhead Plumbing is ready to help. Schedule your seasonal inspection today.
